An international conservation event in Abu Dhabi is set to focus on boosting environmental action and ways to change economies to support nature.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature World Conservation Congress 2025, taking place from October 9 to 15 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, is expected to draw more than 10,000 participants from 160 countries.
It comes with only five years remaining until the 2030 deadline for the Paris Agreement, a key part of which is to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Abu Dhabi's hosting of the event “underscores the UAE’s role as a driving force in global efforts to protect the environment and preserve nature”, said Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri, secretary general of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi.
Key issues on the agenda
The event is not just an opportunity for discussion; it is a critical forum where tangible solutions for global environmental challenges are shaped. Key topics will include:
Scaling up conservation efforts to address the global biodiversity crisis
Conservation leaders are calling for a major shift in global biodiversity efforts, emphasising the need to scale up climate-resilient solutions at every level of government. By combining scientific advancements with traditional knowledge and empowering local communities, there is growing momentum to secure biodiversity in the face of climate change and other environmental threats.
Reducing climate overshoot risks
Experts warn that without urgent action to reduce emissions and implement long-term adaptation strategies, the ability of nature-based solutions like reforestation and wetland restoration to mitigate climate impacts will diminish. While these solutions remain vital, a more diverse and innovative approach is needed to protect biodiversity and support vulnerable communities as climate risks intensify.
Landmark event for the region
The UAE’s hosting of the congress is a testament to its role as a key player in global environmental issues.
President Sheikh Mohamed has lent his patronage to the congress, a clear indication of the nation’s dedication to advancing environmental protection and biodiversity conservation as central elements of its vision for a sustainable future.
This event is especially significant for the Gulf region, where issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss and desertification have become increasingly important.
The UAE’s hosting of the event reflects its significant progress in conservation efforts and its readiness to play a leading role in fostering international co-operation to protect the environment.
Razan Al Mubarak, president of IUCN and managing director of EAD, said that the congress will be “a defining moment to build on that momentum, bringing together the world’s leading voices in conservation to accelerate nature-based solutions, strengthen biodiversity and enhance resilience”.
“The UAE’s role in shaping global environmental action continues to grow, and Abu Dhabi will provide a critical platform to forge the partnerships and commitments needed to secure a more sustainable future,” she said.
The UAE’s commitment to global environmental leadership
The UAE’s role as a host is a reflection of its broader environmental strategy, which emphasises not only national sustainability but also regional and global collaboration.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, alongside the EAD, played a crucial role in the bid to host the congress. The ministry is already driving several key initiatives focused on biodiversity conservation, climate action and sustainability, and will take an active role in shaping the discussions at the congress.
Dr Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said the ministry will play an active role in the congress, “driving forward the UAE's commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability, thereby shaping the future of our planet”.
“Protecting our natural ecosystems – both on land and at sea – is of utmost importance to the UAE,” she said.
As the global community grapples with escalating environmental crises, the event could serve as a critical turning point for international co-operation.
'Real impact'
The congress is held every four years, bringing together governments, NGOs, indigenous people, businesses and scientists to chart the course for conservation and sustainable development.
It comes with global biodiversity at risk and climate change intensifying, aiming to offer a moment for reflection, collaboration and action.
“Our planet is at a crossroads and facing unprecedented challenges,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, director general of the IUCN. “In this critical moment, the congress will allow IUCN and the global community to come together to make a real impact and work towards our shared goal of protecting this precious planet that provides for us.”
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
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Cast: John Abraham, Manoj Bajpayee
Rating: 2/5
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KILLING OF QASSEM SULEIMANI
Specs
Engine: 51.5kW electric motor
Range: 400km
Power: 134bhp
Torque: 175Nm
Price: From Dh98,800
Available: Now
HEADLINE HERE
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Killing of Qassem Suleimani
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Series: South Africa lead three-match series 2-0
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2pm: Maiden (TB) Dh60,000 (Dirt) 1,200m, Winner: Mouheeb, Tom Marquand (jockey), Nicholas Bachalard (trainer)
2.30pm: Handicap (TB) Dh68,000 (D) 1,200m, Winner: Honourable Justice, Royston Ffrench, Salem bin Ghadayer
3pm: Handicap (TB) Dh84,000 (D) 1,200m, Winner: Dahawi, Antonio Fresu, Musabah Al Muhairi
3.30pm: Conditions (TB) Dh100,000 (D) 1,200m, Winner: Dark Silver, Fernando Jara, Ahmad bin Harmash
4pm: Maiden (TB) Dh60,000 (D) 1,600m, Winner: Dark Of Night. Antonio Fresu, Al Muhairi.
4.30pm: Handicap (TB) Dh68,000 (D) 1,600m, Winner: Habah, Pat Dobbs, Doug Watson
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Specs
Engine: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric
Range: Up to 610km
Power: 905hp
Torque: 985Nm
Price: From Dh439,000
Available: Now
How to help
Send “thenational” to the following numbers or call the hotline on: 0502955999
2289 – Dh10
2252 – Dh 50
6025 – Dh20
6027 – Dh 100
6026 – Dh 200
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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Torque: 560Nm @ 4,000rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 12.1L / 100km
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Pharaoh's curse
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Reports at the time said Lord Carnarvon suffered from “pain as the inflammation affected the nasal passages and eyes”.
Decades later, scientists contended he had died of aspergillosis after inhaling spores of the fungus aspergillus in the tomb, which can lie dormant for months. The fact several others who entered were also found dead withiin a short time led to the myth of the curse.
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KILLING OF QASSEM SULEIMANI
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Started: 2020
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Based: Dubai, UAE
Sector: Entertainment
Number of staff: 210
Investment raised: $75 million from investors including Galaxy Interactive, Riyadh Season, Sega Ventures and Apis Venture Partners
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